LEXINGTON, Ky. (Interstat) — The Kentucky Wildcats opened their season with a 77-51 victory over the Nicholls State Colonels on Tuesday night at Rupp Arena. After leading 28-15 at halftime, the Wildcats pulled away with a 49-point second-half performance in front of 19,289 fans. Collin Chandler led a balanced Kentucky attack with 15 points. Jalin Rice scored 13 points for Nicholls State, which was held to just 15 points in the first half. The win gives Kentucky a 1-0 start, while Nicholls State begins the season 0-1.